2026 Fashion Trends: Shorts Styles

The definitive guide to this year's hottest shorts trends

The shorts landscape for 2026 is bold, diverse, and refreshingly wearable, with tailored bermudas, vintage-inspired cut-offs, and sophisticated pleated styles leading the charge. As someone who's spent years styling women through changing trends, I can confidently say this season offers something transformative for every body type and personal style.

Gone are the days when shorts were merely a summer afterthought. 2026 sees shorts elevated to sophisticated wardrobe staples that transition seamlessly from boardroom to brunch, from city breaks to countryside escapes.

The Five Key Shorts Trends for 2026

1. Tailored Bermuda Renaissance

The tailored bermuda is having its moment. We're seeing structured, knee-grazing styles in luxe fabrics like wool crepe and technical cotton. The silhouette is sharp but comfortable, with pressed creases and sophisticated details like horn buttons or contrast piping.

2. 90s Cut-Off Revival

Vintage-inspired denim cut-offs are everywhere, but 2026's versions are more refined. Think raw-edge hems with subtle fraying, high-waisted silhouettes, and premium denim weights that hold their shape beautifully.

3. Pleated Power Shorts

Taking inspiration from tennis and school uniforms, pleated shorts offer movement and sophistication. The key is finding the right rise - mid-to-high waist works best for most figures.

4. Oversized Utility Styles

Cargo pockets, drawstring waists, and relaxed fits dominate the utility trend. These aren't your basic festival shorts - we're seeing elevated versions in linen blends and organic cotton.

5. Micro-Mini Sophistication

For those brave enough, ultra-short styles are back but elevated with premium fabrics and impeccable tailoring. Think leather, silk blends, and structured cotton rather than basic denim.

Finding Your Perfect Fit

The golden rule remains: proportion is everything. If you've got longer legs, bermuda length creates beautiful clean lines. Petite frames often benefit from higher waistlines and shorter inseams to elongate the silhouette. Curvier figures should look for styles with a comfortable waistband that sits where you feel most confident - whether that's natural waist or just below.

For apple shapes, I always recommend avoiding super-low rises. Mid-rise styles with a slight A-line through the leg create the most flattering silhouette. Pear shapes can balance beautifully with tailored shorts that have structured waistbands and clean lines.

Styling Your Shorts for Maximum Impact

The versatility of 2026's shorts styles means endless styling possibilities. Pair tailored bermudas with silk blouses and blazers for office-appropriate looks. Vintage cut-offs work brilliantly with oversized jumpers and ankle boots for weekend styling.

For evening, don't overlook shorts entirely. Pleated styles in luxe fabrics can be dressed up with silk camisoles and statement jewellery. The key is confidence and choosing the right proportions for your frame.

Where to Shop: My Brand Recommendations

High Street Heroes

COSArketWeekdayMonkiUrban OutfittersZara

COS consistently delivers beautifully cut bermudas in premium cotton blends. Arket's linen shorts are unbeatable for summer styling, whilst Weekday offers the best vintage-inspired cuts at accessible prices.

Premium Players

GanniStaudNanushkaBaserangeRotate Birger ChristensenRails

Ganni's pleated styles are absolutely divine - their fabrications feel expensive without the luxury price tag. Staud offers incredible tailored bermudas that work from desk to dinner, whilst Nanushka's leather shorts are investment pieces that'll last years.

Luxury Investments

The RowTotemeLemaireKhaiteBottega VenetaSaint Laurent

The Row's tailored shorts are simply perfection - minimal, impeccably cut, and worth every penny. Toteme offers sophisticated bermudas that epitomise Scandi chic, whilst Khaite's leather shorts are modern classics in the making.

Independent Discoveries

Paloma WoolRejina PyoChopova LowenaChristopher EsberRóheSimone Rocha

Paloma Wool creates beautifully unique silhouettes that feel fresh and contemporary. Rejina Pyo's architectural approach to shorts design is fascinating, whilst Christopher Esber offers cut-out details that feel modern rather than gimmicky.

Fabric Focus: What to Look For

Quality fabrication makes all the difference with shorts. For tailored styles, look for cotton blends with a touch of elastane for comfort and shape retention. Linen remains unbeatable for relaxed summer styles, but ensure it's a good weight to avoid excessive creasing.

Denim should feel substantial - avoid anything too stretchy as it loses shape quickly. For evening or special occasions, silk blends and technical fabrics offer sophistication with practical benefits like breathability and wrinkle resistance.

Discover Your Perfect Size with Tellar

Finding the right fit is crucial for shorts - and that's where Tellar.co.uk becomes your styling superhero. As the UK's leading sizing tool, Tellar instantly matches your body to over 1500 brands, taking the guesswork out of online shopping.

Visit Tellar.co.uk Store Size Lookup Tool

How Tellar Works

1. Measure once using your bust, waist, hip measurements or existing brand size

2. Use the Store Size Lookup to get your precise size in any brand - from COS to Bottega Veneta

3. Always free - no downloads needed, works perfectly in-browser

Plus: The Tellar Fashion Hub

Access our library of expert styling posts - honest, unbiased, and always free. From sizing guides to trend reports, our top stylists share insider knowledge to elevate your wardrobe.

Ultimate Sizing Guide 2026 Jeans Trends Complete Dress Guide Ultimate Jacket Guide

The Bottom Line

2026's shorts trends offer genuine versatility and style evolution. Whether you're drawn to the sophistication of tailored bermudas or the relaxed appeal of vintage-inspired cuts, there's never been a better time to embrace shorts as a year-round wardrobe staple.

Remember, the best trend is the one that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Use these guidelines as inspiration, but trust your instincts and choose styles that enhance your personal aesthetic. After all, great style is about feeling authentically yourself - trends are simply the starting point for your own sartorial story.